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When in doubt about your cat’s bathing needs, be sure to talk to your vet. Wooten warns, “Never use a product that has tar included in the ingredient list, as it is toxic to cats,” - i.e., put down that bottle of human dandruff shampoo.Īlso, when picking a shampoo, keep in mind that some cats are particularly sensitive to fragrance, in which case, you’ll want to find an unscented formula, while others may actually enjoy scent (the smell of lavender may even soothe a stressed kitty). They are also natural so they shouldn’t bother the skin.” Wooden says the best cat shampoos for dandruff will be made with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, ethyl lactate, selenium sulfide, and sulfur and salicylic acid. Bonk recommends ingredients like oatmeal, aloe, and vitamin E, which can “really help to moisturize and reduce itch. If your cat is dealing with a condition like dry, flaky skin, Dr.
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If your cat really can’t stand the water - and you’d prefer not to end up with arms full of scratches - a waterless shampoo effectively cleanses fur, no rinsing required. Instead, brush regularly in between baths to distribute your cat’s natural oils. “Frequent bathing can also cause itchiness and dry skin,” according to Dr. However, when it comes to washing your cat, less can actually be more. Long-haired breeds as well as elderly and obese cats who struggle with cleaning themselves may benefit from regular baths, as can any kitty who gets into some sour-smelling garbage. If you’re someone who lives with pet allergies, bathing your cat once a week can help reduce allergy-causing dander, but even if you’re not allergic, there are some instances when your kitty could use a shampoo session. Sarah Wooten, DVM, is a Certified Veterinary Journalist (CVF) for pet insurance company Pumpkin.
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The ExpertsĬhyrle Bonk, DVM, is a remote veterinary consultant for ExcitedCats, a blog that offers professional-backed feline care tips. Some are even fortified with specific ingredients to target skin conditions like itchiness, dandruff, and excessive shedding. The best cat shampoos are made with gentle, soothing ingredients like coconut and oatmeal to cleanse and moisturize their skin and coat. Cats are naturally self-cleaning creatures, so they don’t need to be bathed nearly as often as dogs do, but periodic washing sessions can certainly be warranted.
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